Mr. Stripey Tomato: Clearing Up the M.R. Tomato Confusion

If you're searching for 'm.r tomato,' you're likely looking for information about the popular heirloom tomato variety known as Mr. Stripey (sometimes mistakenly called M.R. Tomato). This distinctive bi-colored tomato features red and yellow stripes, weighs 1-2 pounds, and offers a sweet yet tangy flavor profile perfect for slicing and fresh preparations. Despite common confusion in naming, there is no officially recognized 'M.R. Tomato' variety in agricultural databases.

Many gardeners and cooking enthusiasts find themselves searching for 'm.r tomato' after hearing the name in conversation or seeing it written informally. The good news is you've landed in the right place to clear up this common gardening confusion once and for all.

Why 'M.R. Tomato' Isn't What You Think

When gardeners search for 'm.r tomato,' they're almost always referring to Mr. Stripey, one of the most beloved bi-colored heirloom tomatoes. The confusion stems from how the name is sometimes abbreviated or misheard in gardening circles. According to the USDA Plant Germplasm Introduction and Testing Research Unit, there is no officially registered tomato variety under the designation 'M.R. Tomato.'

The Mr. Stripey tomato (Solanum lycopersicum 'Mr. Stripey') first appeared in American seed catalogs in the 1990s, though its exact origins remain somewhat mysterious. Some gardening historians believe it may have European roots, possibly from Germany where similar bi-colored varieties have been cultivated for generations.

Mr. Stripey vs. Similar-Sounding Varieties

Several tomato varieties have names that could be confused with 'm.r tomato.' Understanding these differences is crucial for gardeners selecting the right seeds:

Variety Name	Appearance	Flavor Profile	Weight Range	Days to Maturity
Mr. Stripey	Red and yellow stripes, often marbled	Sweet with mild acidity, complex flavor	1-2 lbs (450-900g)	75-80 days
Mortgage Lifter	Uniform pink to red	Balanced sweet-tart, meaty texture	1.5-2 lbs (680-900g)	80-85 days
Marnero	Yellow with red streaks	Very sweet, low acidity	0.5-1 lb (225-450g)	65-70 days
Mountain Rouge	Deep red with green shoulders	Bright acidity, classic tomato flavor	0.75-1 lb (340-450g)	70-75 days

Identifying True Mr. Stripey Tomatoes

When distinguishing genuine Mr. Stripey tomatoes from similar varieties, focus on these key characteristics:

• Color pattern: Irregular red and yellow stripes that often appear marbled rather than neatly segmented
• Shoulder color: Typically retains green shoulders longer than most varieties, even when nearly ripe
• Shape: Slightly flattened globe shape with pronounced ribbing near the stem
• Interior: Multicolored gel and seed pattern with red and yellow sections

According to research from Cornell University's Vegetable Program, the distinctive coloration comes from a genetic trait that affects lycopene distribution in the fruit. This creates the beautiful marbled effect that makes Mr. Stripey so visually striking on sandwiches and salads.

Growing Mr. Stripey Successfully

While Mr. Stripey tomatoes produce stunning fruit, they present some unique growing challenges compared to standard varieties:

Essential Growing Conditions

• Support requirements: Use sturdy cages or trellises as the large fruits can weigh down branches
• Disease resistance: Moderate resistance to common tomato diseases but susceptible to cracking in inconsistent moisture conditions
• Pruning needs: Minimal pruning recommended to maintain fruit production and prevent sunscald
• Harvest timing: Pick when the yellow portions turn golden and the red areas deepen in color (don't wait for full red coloration)

Gardeners in cooler climates should note that Mr. Stripey performs best in longer growing seasons. The University of Minnesota Extension recommends starting seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date for best results in northern regions.

Culinary Applications for Mr. Stripey Tomatoes

The complex flavor profile of Mr. Stripey tomatoes makes them exceptionally versatile in the kitchen:

• Fresh preparations: Ideal for caprese salads, sandwiches, and bruschetta where their visual appeal shines
• Cooking limitations: Best used fresh as cooking diminishes their distinctive flavor complexity
• Preservation: Can be canned as whole tomatoes or in mixed varieties, but not recommended for clear tomato sauces due to color variation
• Pairing suggestions: Complements basil, balsamic vinegar, fresh mozzarella, and mild olive oils

Professional chefs note that the sugar-acid balance in Mr. Stripey makes it particularly well-suited for fresh salsas where you want both sweetness and tang. Unlike many large heirlooms, Mr. Stripey maintains better structural integrity when sliced, making it a favorite for gourmet burgers and sandwiches.

Where to Find Authentic Mr. Stripey Seeds

Due to the popularity and confusion around this variety, many seed companies sell mislabeled 'Mr. Stripey' seeds. For authentic varieties:

• Purchase from reputable heirloom seed companies like Seed Savers Exchange or Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds
• Look for the full botanical designation 'Solanum lycopersicum 'Mr. Stripey'' on seed packets
• Avoid seeds labeled simply as 'M.R. Tomato' or 'Mystery Stripe'
• Consider joining local seed exchange groups where experienced gardeners share verified seeds

The Seed Savers Exchange maintains a verified seed bank of authentic Mr. Stripey tomatoes, having preserved this variety since 1982. Their catalog notes that true Mr. Stripey consistently produces the distinctive bi-color pattern, while imposter varieties often show less defined striping or different growth habits.

Common Misconceptions About 'M.R. Tomato'

Several persistent myths surround this variety that deserve clarification:

• Myth: 'M.R.' stands for 'Medium Red' or 'Mixed Red'
• Reality: The name 'Mr. Stripey' appears to have originated as a descriptive name without official abbreviation
• Myth: All bi-colored tomatoes are Mr. Stripey
• Reality: Many distinct bi-colored varieties exist, including German Orange, Tigerella, and Black Sea Man
• Myth: Mr. Stripey is a hybrid variety
• Reality: It's an open-pollinated heirloom that breeds true from saved seeds

Is Mr. Stripey the same as M.R. Tomato?

Mr. Stripey is almost certainly what people mean when they search for 'M.R. Tomato.' The 'M.R.' appears to be a mishearing or misinterpretation of 'Mr.' in Mr. Stripey. There is no officially recognized tomato variety called 'M.R. Tomato' in agricultural databases.

Why do Mr. Stripey tomatoes have stripes?

The distinctive striping results from uneven distribution of lycopene (the compound that makes tomatoes red) during fruit development. This genetic trait creates the marbled red and yellow pattern that makes Mr. Stripey visually unique among tomato varieties.

Are Mr. Stripey tomatoes good for canning?

Mr. Stripey can be canned as whole tomatoes or in mixed varieties, but they're not ideal for clear tomato sauces due to their color variation. The flavor holds up well in whole canned tomatoes, but the visual appeal of the stripes diminishes during processing.

How can I verify I'm getting authentic Mr. Stripey seeds?

Purchase from reputable heirloom seed companies that specify 'Solanum lycopersicum 'Mr. Stripey'' on the packet. Avoid seeds labeled as 'M.R. Tomato' or 'Mystery Stripe.' Organizations like Seed Savers Exchange maintain verified stock of authentic Mr. Stripey seeds that have been preserved since the 1980s.

Do Mr. Stripey tomatoes taste different from regular tomatoes?

Yes, Mr. Stripey offers a more complex flavor profile with higher sugar content balanced by mild acidity. Many gardeners describe it as having 'tropical' notes compared to standard red tomatoes. The flavor is best experienced fresh, as cooking diminishes its distinctive characteristics.